Controversial Islamic preacher Zakir Naik, currently residing in Malaysia, has once again found himself at the center of controversy after a video emerged showing him meeting with commanders of the Lashkar-e-Tayyiba (LeT), a UN-designated terrorist organization, during a visit to Pakistan. The video, which quickly went viral, shows Naik warmly embracing and greeting Muzammil Iqbal Hashmi and Harris Dhar, two prominent LeT commanders, raising serious concerns about his influence and potential connections to terrorism.
The Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) is known for its involvement in numerous terror attacks, including the devastating 2008 Mumbai attacks. Prior to Naik’s visit, LeT members, including Faisal Nadeem and Muzammil Hashmi, actively promoted his arrival through an online campaign. The video further highlights the close ties between Naik and the LeT, fueling suspicions about the true purpose of his visit and the nature of his activities in Pakistan.
Naik, who has been under investigation by India’s National Investigation Agency (NIA) for alleged terrorist activities since 2016, fled India after the July 1, 2016, bombing at a cafe in Dhaka, Bangladesh, which claimed over 20 lives. The NIA filed a case against him under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act and relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code. Notably, one of the bombers in the Dhaka attack reportedly cited Naik’s speeches as a source of inspiration. Additionally, several individuals who joined the Islamic State have claimed that Naik’s teachings influenced their decision to join the militant group.
Naik’s activities have not gone unnoticed. In 2022, the Indian government declared his Islamic Research Foundation unlawful, citing his promotion of hate and disharmony. He is accused of using his platform, Peace TV, and social media, where he boasts over 20 million followers, to spread extremist ideologies and incite hatred. His speeches have been deemed objectionable for glorifying known terrorists and encouraging conversion and terrorism.
Despite the controversy surrounding him, Naik continues to travel and hold public events. His recent visit to Pakistan and his interactions with LeT commanders have further intensified calls for accountability and raised serious questions about his true intentions. The incident has sparked widespread outrage and renewed concerns about the potential dangers posed by his activities, both domestically and internationally. The international community is watching closely as the situation unfolds, demanding transparency and action from authorities regarding Naik’s activities and connections to terrorist organizations.